Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a large, interactive show presenting film props, costumes and set designs from the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. In versions that have toured different cities there are also immersive installations that let visitors "step into" famous scenes as well as behind-the-scenes material.
In Poland (the 2025 season) the exhibition was hosted at the Alvernia Planet complex in the village of Nieporaz — a venue located by the A4 motorway between Krakow and Katowice. It’s a modern dome complex designed for large events and productions.
Important note about dates: the Alvernia Planet edition ran in spring and summer 2025 (announced dates: April 11 – August 17, 2025). If you’re travelling outside those dates, check whether the exhibition is available elsewhere or if new showings have been scheduled.
Short answer: no. Alvernia Planet is outside Krakow, in Nieporaz, roughly 30–35 km from the very centre. That distance isn’t realistic to cover on foot in a reasonable time for the average visitor.
How to get there? The fastest and most convenient option is by car (A4 motorway) — typically about 35–45 minutes from Krakow centre depending on traffic. If you don’t have a car, consider a taxi or rideshare; there are also public transport options to nearby towns (suburban buses to Niepołomice), followed by a short taxi/transfer to Alvernia Planet.
Most practical approaches:
- If you have a car: book a morning or afternoon timeslot for the exhibition (typically allow 2–3 hours plus travel). You can make a half-day trip to Alvernia Planet and return to the city for evening sightseeing in Kazimierz or dinner.
- Without a car: plan a full morning or midday for the trip (suburban transport + taxi), or check whether the exhibition organisers offered transfers. Buy tickets in advance — events like this often have limited entry slots.
- If the exhibition isn’t running during your visit: treat it as a great reason to return and instead explore Krakow’s own brand of magic: the old Jewish quarter, atmospheric streets and cosy cafes with a pop-culture vibe.
Krakow is perfect for walking: many sights are close together and strolling the cobbled streets is part of the pleasure. The plan below assumes a brisk pace and lots of walking, but nothing extreme.
Day 1 - Old Town and Wawel (classic central route):
- Main Market Square: Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), St. Mary's Basilica (listen for the hejnał), cafes and the Market atmosphere.
- Floriańska Street and St. Florian's Gate: walk from the Market towards the Barbican and the Planty park.
- Walk through the Planty or head directly to Wawel: Wawel Royal Castle, Wawel Cathedral, Dragon’s Den (great for families).
- Time: 4–6 hours with breaks, lots of photo stops and a lunch break near the Market or in Kazimierz.
Day 2 - Kazimierz and Podgórze (culture, cafes, history):
- Kazimierz: synagogues, charming streets, cafés, street art and small galleries. Spend half a day soaking up the local atmosphere.
- Cross the river to Podgórze: Ghetto Heroes Square, famous murals and the Schindler’s Factory Museum (if you want to go inside, book tickets in advance).
- In the evening I recommend dinner in Kazimierz — many atmospheric spots serve Polish and international cuisine.
Day 3 - Planty, Vistula boulevards and a light alternative:
- Morning walk around the Planty — a peaceful way to wrap up your visit.
- Vistula boulevards: relax, enjoy the view of Wawel, seasonal riverside cafés in summer.
- If you want something just outside the centre but not far: choose Kościuszko Mound (great city views) or a quick trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine (note: that requires transport and the excursion takes several hours).
- Time: 3–6 hours depending on chosen attractions.
Tickets and reservations:
- For museums such as Wawel Royal Castle or the Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum it’s worth buying tickets online and selecting a specific entry time — especially at weekends and in high season.
- Harry Potter exhibition: editions shown in Poland required online ticket purchase and fixed entry windows. Buy tickets ahead to secure your slot.
Visiting time:
- Plan half a day for the Old Town and Wawel; half a day for Kazimierz. If you want to visit multiple museums, allow a full day.
Comfort:
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobbles and stairs are part of daily sightseeing.
- Weather in Krakow can be changeable — bring a light raincoat and a water bottle.
- If you plan to travel to Alvernia Planet, add extra time for transfer and possible traffic near the motorway junction.
Parking and access: Alvernia Planet is located by the A4 exit (Rudno junction) and has a large parking area — convenient for visitors arriving by car. Parking may be paid and managed according to the operator’s rules during events.
Prices and amenities: editions of this exhibition typically offered different ticket categories (standard, reduced, family); VIP options were sometimes available. Some editions provided an audio guide in Polish and English, allowing a visit of around 90 minutes with additional behind-the-scenes stories.
For families: the exhibition is designed to appeal to both adults and children. If you’re travelling with young kids, check age rules and possible discounts.
Is the Harry Potter exhibition in Krakow? - Yes and no: the exhibition was hosted at a venue near Krakow, Alvernia Planet (Nieporaz), but not in the historic city centre.
How much time do you need for the exhibition? - Plan at least 1.5–3 hours for the exhibition itself plus travel time.
Can I see everything on foot in 3 days? - Yes, standard Krakow attractions (Old Town, Wawel, Kazimierz, Planty) are walkable. The exhibition outside the city requires transport.
What if the exhibition isn’t running during my visit? - Krakow and the surrounding area have plenty of alternatives: the Wieliczka Salt Mine, museums (MOCAK, National Museum), walks along the Vistula and atmospheric cafés in Kazimierz.
- Avoid crowds in the morning: Wawel and the Market look magical early in the day. If you like quiet photos, get up early.
- Dinners in Kazimierz have a special atmosphere — look for small, family-run restaurants serving local cuisine.
- If you want to combine pop culture with Krakow: look out for temporary exhibitions and cultural events — the city buzzes especially during the season.
- And most importantly: explore with a smile. Krakow is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with breaks for coffee and conversations.
